A distinguished pair of antique Victorian pique double hoop earrings, circa 1870s, set with fine 14K gold wires with gold and silver flower designs. The drop dangle double hoop earrings have the gold and silver inlay around each gently curved gradiated hoop with a thick band of gold on top. Both hoops are gathered with an oval pique top which holds the pierced hook ear wires. One of the finest pair of earrings I have come across showing extreme craftsmanship with the curved double shell hoops.
The technique for making pique, inlaying gold and silver into shell or ivory, was brought to England by the Huguenots when they were expelled from France in the late 17th Century. Pique jewelry blossomed in the late 1800's. All original superb antique Victorian earrings!
Materials: 14 Karat Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver Gemstone: Shell Measurements: 1 7/8 inches from the top of the wire to the bottom of the drop. The largest hoop is 1 inch wide. Weight: 6 grams together Condition: In excellent condition with the gold and silver bright, no chips or major nicks, and all the pique present. Extremely well cared for throughout the ages.
